𝗩𝗜𝗚𝗜𝗟 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗛𝗨𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗜𝗧𝗬: Santa Monica Mayor, Community Gather in Peaceful Tribute for Immigrant Rights and Solidarity

SANTA MONICA, CA — Saturday, June 28, 2025 — Dozens gathered at the St. Monica statue in Palisades Park for a solemn gathering officially titled “Vigil for Humanity.” Organized by the Mexican-American Policy and Political Alliance (MAPPA), the event responded to rising concerns over aggressive immigration enforcement, racial profiling, and growing fear within immigrant and marginalized communities. Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete participated in the vigil and shared deeply personal reflections rooted in her family’s immigrant past. “America is immigration,” she told the crowd. “It’s immigrants. It’s folks who have come here from everywhere to build this rich culture we have,” cautioning against the erosion of dignity and due process under current policies. Former Councilmember Oscar de la Torre, a prominent organizer, described the event as a collective act of prayer and peaceful protest. He criticized the use of “masked men with unmarked cars” to detain people in public spaces, decrying it as “racial profiling at its worst,” and a direct assault on families. State Board of Equalization member Tony Vazquez, Santa Monica’s first Latino mayor, also addressed the crowd, urging California’s leaders to consider economic leverage—suggesting withholding federal funds in response to aggressive raids. “If we don’t flex our muscle, what good is it?” he warned. A powerful land acknowledgment and blessing were led by Lisette, a Maya-Nawat speaker, honoring the Tongva, Chumash, and other indigenous nations whose unceded lands were the site of the vigil. Healings and calls to unity continued with interfaith leader Reverend Kathleen Benjamin, who invited attendees to “be the hands of humanity” in solidarity with those suffering. The vigil included a poignant moment when a homeless attendee voiced frustration over public neglect. Rather than dismiss him, participants granted space, responded with compassion, and offered direct assistance—reinforcing the vigil's message of universal dignity. Artist Daniel Alonzo and activist Maria Loya recounted stories of ancestral struggle and resilience, urging healing through communal grief and positive intent. The evening concluded with a prayer circle beneath Saint Monica’s gaze as the crowd clasped hands in a show of unity. MAPPA and community leaders reiterated that this gathering marked only the beginning. Oscar de la Torre announced plans for a countywide general strike and boycott, calling for continued civic action through prayer, protest, and political engagement. “We must respond with unity, compassion, and strength,” he affirmed